Work and Study in the U.S $200,000 Grant for International Students

While it’s no news that the US is among the most expensive countries to gain tertiary education, there are several options to secure finance for your studies here, so don’t let that deter you.

For many international students, leaving their home country to study in the United States is a big opportunity. Even if going to college in the US seems like a great idea, there are financial obstacles to overcome.

Grants, however, provide aspirant students with a lifeline. We examine study grants in the US in this article, going over their importance, available possibilities, qualifying requirements, and application procedure.

What you need to know about Grant for International Students

When referring to financial aid packages offered by different organizations to help students pursue their education, the term “grant” is used with studying in the United States. 

Grants are a type of financial support that does not need to be repaid, unlike loans, which makes them a desirable choice for people looking for help paying for their education.

However, you will not be qualified for financial aid meant exclusively for citizens of the United States as an international student. Nonetheless, there are more foreign scholarships available to study in the US as a result of US colleges placing a higher priority on internationalization. 

How to Apply for Study Abroad Grants in the US

Most international grants have a lot of applicants from different countries, so it’s best to apply early for as many grants as you can. Aim to begin applying for financing around 18 months before the commencement of your program, as you will want to secure your funding as soon as possible.

While application processes vary, you should usually anticipate needing to do the following:

• Go and get the Application form
• Explain your financial situation
• Describe the intended use of the Grants
• Why you deserve the grant. 

Study Grants for International Students to Study in the USA

Here are some undergraduate and graduate grants available for international students willing to study in the USA in 2024:

1. MPOWER Financing STEM Scholarship

MPOWER Financing established this STEM scholarship to combat education inequality and support women in STEM fields, specifically for international and DACA students. If you are selected, the scholarship funds will be sent directly to your university.

Eligibility

– Must be enrolled or accepted in a full-time degree program at an MPOWER-supported institution in the U.S. or Canada.

– Must have legal permission to study in the U.S. or Canada.

Awards

– Grand prize: $6,000

– Runner-up: $2,000

– Consolation prize: $1,000

Deadline

– Application Deadline: June 30, 2024

2. Fulbright Program for Foreign Students

The Fulbright Program offers scholarships for foreign students and Foreign Language Teaching Assistants in over 160 countries. Each year, approximately 4,000 international students receive these prestigious awards.

Eligibility

– Eligibility criteria, award amounts, and deadlines vary by country. For detailed information, visit your country’s Fulbright website.

Award Details

– Amount: Varies

– Application Deadline: Varies by country

3. Study a Bachelor’s in the USA Scholarship

Educations.com offers this scholarship for high-achieving, globally-minded students from outside the U.S. to pursue a bachelor’s degree in the U.S.

Eligibility

– Must apply for a bachelor’s degree program starting in fall 2024 at a U.S.-based institution, either on campus or online.

– Applications must be submitted in English.

Award Details

– Amount: $5,000

– Application Deadline: June 28, 2024

4. #YouAreWelcomeHere Scholarship

Colleges and universities participating in the #YouAreWelcomeHere scholarship program offer two annual renewable scholarships for international undergraduate students.

Eligibility

– Eligibility criteria vary by institution. Check if your school participates and review their specific requirements.

– Applicants must submit either a short essay or a multimedia project demonstrating how they plan to apply their leadership skills on campus.

Award Details

– Amount: Covers over 50% of tuition

– Application Deadline: June 28, 2024

5. MPOWER Monthly Scholarship Series

MPOWER awards three $1,000 scholarships each month to international students, with a new topic announced monthly. By year-end, $48,000 will be awarded to 36 students.

Eligibility

– Must be an international student enrolled in a full-time degree program at an MPOWER-supported institution in the U.S. or Canada.

– Must have legal authorization to study in the U.S. or Canada.

Award Details

– Amount: $1,000 per month

– Application Deadline: Last day of each month

Source of Funds and Grants to Study in the US 

1. Family Funding 

For most international students, the family provides the majority of their financial support. 

According to recent research by the Institute of International Education, college and university financing only accounted for the second largest share of funding, while family funding takes approximately 65% of all international students studying in the United States. 

2. International Scholarships 

International scholarships are made for one purpose, to fund education programs abroad. These initiatives offer students financial assistance, unique cultural experiences, and valuable networking opportunities.

International who are willing to study and work in the US with a limited budget, prefer taking the scholarship route. 

3. Funding from Your Home Country

Your home country might offer funding through various organizations, companies, or government programs. Currently, Saudi Arabia has a foundation meant to provide fully covered scholarships for over 10,000 Saudi Arabian students studying in the US.

4. International Organizations

Several international organizations provide scholarships to students worldwide. Some of these include:

• World Health Organization
• Fulbright Commission
• United Nations
• World Council of Churches
• AMIDEAST
• Soros Foundation

However, many of these organizations require applicants to apply from their home country, so planning as the competition can be tough.

5. American Universities

Through their financial assistance offices, several American schools and universities provide minimal financial aid to foreign students. However, funding for undergraduate education is often far less abundant in the US than for graduate education. 

6. The American Government

Federal loans from the United States, such as Plus Loans and Stafford Loans, are not available to international students. 

If you are an international student traveling to the United States for studies, you should check with the American embassy in your home country since there could be additional financing options available.

Tips for Cutting Costs While Studying in the U.S.

Living expenses in the U.S. can add up quickly, so here are some strategies to help you save money while studying abroad.

Live with a Host Family

Opting to live with a host family can significantly reduce your room and board expenses compared to university housing or high apartment rents. 

However, be aware that your experience will be challenging based on your host family and their house rules, and it might be more difficult to integrate with the student community.

Stay in the U.S. During Breaks

To save on travel costs, consider staying in the U.S. during breaks. Many schools allow students to remain in campus housing during the winter break, though each school’s rules may vary. 

Keep in mind that some colleges close certain amenities, like dining halls and buildings, during this period.

Work Part-Time

If you have an F-1 visa, you can work part-time while enrolled in school to earn extra cash. Typically, you’re restricted to on-campus jobs. 

Balancing work with a full course load can be challenging, but on-campus employers often understand the need for flexible hours to prioritize your studies.

Take Public Transportation

Many colleges and universities offer a free bus system for students to get around campus and the surrounding area. Check your campus resources for bus schedules and transit options to make the most of this cost-saving benefit.

Read Also: United States Jobs for Immigrants – USA Employment Opportunities

Conclusion 

All in all, the terms of your grants may allow you to apply for multiple awards to alleviate college expenses. Additionally, some grants are renewable annually, providing ongoing support throughout your college journey.

Although certain colleges might provide full or partial grants and scholarships, many organizations also offer support to international students independently of college funding. These scholarships are typically based on submitting projects, personal statements, essays, or undergoing interviews as part of the competitive selection process.

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